Hosta Ayesha

Plant Hostas in spring or autumn. Hostas thrive in deep, rich, humus-bearing, loose soil, preferably neutral to acidic (at least low in limestone), and moist to wet throughout the year. Plant 'Ayesha' in partial shade or dappled shade, and in a sheltered location protected from strong winds.

Prepare a planting hole that is 20 cm x 20 cm x 20 cm. If your soil is heavy, mix equal parts of compost with crumbled soil, partially backfill the hole, and place your plant so that the top of the root ball is covered with 3 cm of soil. Applying a slow-release fertiliser (dehydrated blood, horn powder) will nourish your plant during its rooting period without the risk of burning. Make sure to position the collar well above ground level. Firm the soil and water generously to eliminate air pockets. If the weather is dry, you will need to water regularly for a few weeks to help the establishment of your plant. Also, water regularly during dry summers.

With their common preference for moist locations, slugs and snails never stray far from hostas. Even though blue or variegated hostas often have thicker and tougher foliage, which is less attractive to slugs, these plants still need protection. Protect your Hostas by surrounding them with ferramol-based pellets (approved for organic farming), eggshells, coffee grounds, wood chips, or any dry and rough natural substance that repels them. Hedgehogs are the gardener's best allies in the fight against slugs and snails, as they do not till the soil like chickens and do not target the young green shoots of plants. Finally, some plants have an odour repellent to slugs, such as wormwood and garlic.